Las Canteras Beach travel guide

Playa de Las Canteras, located in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, has a rich history that dates back centuries. It was initially known for its quarries, from which it derived its name 'Las Canteras,' meaning 'The Quarries' in Spanish.

The beach's sandstone was extensively used in the construction of the city's historic buildings, including the iconic Santa Ana Cathedral. During the 19th century, Las Canteras began to gain recognition as a health retreat. Its balmy climate and therapeutic waters attracted visitors from across Europe.

In the 20th century, the beach underwent significant transformations. The promenade was constructed in the 1950s, enhancing its appeal as a tourist destination. A natural reef, known as La Barra, was also declared a Protected Area in the late 90s, preserving the rich underwater flora and fauna.

Today, Playa de Las Canteras is renowned not only for its historic significance but also for its picturesque beauty, vibrant marine life, and year-round surfing opportunities.

Playa de Las Canteras is renowned for its stunning natural barrier reef, known as 'La Barra,' that stretches across the beach approximately 200 metres from the shore. This distinctive feature, which surfaces during low tide, creates a tranquil lagoon perfect for swimming and snorkeling, providing a safe environment for families and novice swimmers.

The beach is also famous for its golden sand which is a product of coral and shell fragments, providing a unique texture and warmth. Playa de Las Canteras is also one of the few beaches in the world where you can surf and enjoy city culture. It's a vibrant surf scene is renowned, with several spots along the 3km stretch suitable for different levels of experience.

Lastly, the beach's promenade, Paseo de las Canteras, is a bustling area with a wide variety of restaurants, shops and cafes, offering a taste of the local Canarian culture alongside spectacular ocean views. It's an ideal place to enjoy the local cuisine, particularly the fresh seafood, while watching the world go by.

Located in the dynamic Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the popular Las Canteras Beach is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Las Palmas or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Spain.

Las Palmas is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Las Palmas offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Las Palmas and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable CC Las Arenas, Parque de Santa Catalina, Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo, Mercado De Vegueta, and Plaza de Santa Ana.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Las Palmas has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Las Palmas, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Spain!

Las Canteras Beach is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Las Palmas, Spain. If you're flying in, Gran Canaria Airport is approximately 14.9 miles (23.9 km) away from Las Palmas. From there, you can easily reach Las Canteras Beach by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Las Palmas, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Las Canteras Beach, which is located 1 mile (1.6 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Las Canteras Beach, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Las Canteras Beach, Spain.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Las Canteras Beach!

The best time to explore Playa de Las Canteras (Las Palmas de Gran Canaria) is between May and November when the weather is at its most favorable, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C. This period is excellent for enjoying the golden sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life of the area. However, the crowd levels tend to peak in July and August due to European summer holidays. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder months of May, June or September to November. These months offer still warm temperatures and less busy beaches. Another highlight during this period is the Las Canteras Beach Fiestas, a series of lively cultural events showcasing local music, dance, and cuisine that take place in June. If you're a surfing enthusiast, the best surf conditions are found from October to February. Overall, planning your visit according to these factors will ensure you experience Las Canteras in all its glory.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Las Canteras Beach and Spain's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Gran Canaria Airport and the city of Las Palmas, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Spain cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Las Palmas and beyond.

Conveniently explore Las Canteras Beach and plenty more captivating attractions in Las Palmas by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Las Canteras Beach and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Las Palmas has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Las Canteras Beach below.

Aside from Las Canteras Beach, Las Palmas is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Las Palmas, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely CC Las Arenas, Parque de Santa Catalina, and Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo.

CC Las Arenas is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Las Palmas, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 37,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of CC Las Arenas is Ctra. Del Rincón, s/n, 35010 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain.

Another appreciated attraction in Las Palmas is Parque de Santa Catalina. Like CC Las Arenas, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars among 20,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this park is C. Gral. Balmes, 910, 35007 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain.

Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Las Palmas. This park and top attraction in Las Palmas has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,300 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Carretera del Dragonal Km 7 (GC-310, 35017 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Las Palmas below.